Erin’s Law requires that all public schools in each state implement a prevention-oriented child sexual abuse program that teaches PreK-12 grade students, age-appropriate techniques to recognize child sexual abuse. The program informs students to tell a trusted adult if they have experienced sexual abuse, educates school personnel about child sexual abuse, and informs parents or guardians of the warning signs of child sexual abuse. The program provides additional assistance, referrals and resources to support sexually abused children and their families. Erin’s law has been passed in 38 states.1
One recommendation for parents is to talk to their children about personal body safety as early as the age of two. Parents and guardians are encouraged to explain to their children about private parts and that nobody should touch them unless the parent or guardian is helping to clean them. Children may be most open to understanding this unfamiliar topic while they are bathing. Parents or guardians could even make it a fun learning experience by having their children put on a bathing suit and explaining that the areas covered by their swimsuits are private.2
Another recommendation for parents or guardians is to talk to their children about trusting their intuition. Help them understand that if they feel like something is wrong, it’s important to tell a trusted adult. Provide some examples of other ways to understand intuition by explaining the difference between safe and unsafe secrets. A safe secret may be a birthday party for Dad or a special activity they get to enjoy for doing something good. Unsafe secrets may include an adult asking them to sit on their lap or not telling a teacher if another student is bullied.2
Predators use scare tactics and grooming as a way to get children not to pay attention to their intuition. Teaching children about safe and unsafe touch is also recommended. Examples of safe touch include hugging grandma or holding hands with a trusted adult to cross the street. Unsafe touch may include a sibling pulling their hair or a classmate kicking them during class. Parents and guardians are encouraged to continue these conversations with their children on an ongoing basis. Children need repetition during their early developmental years to learn effectively.
Although parents are typically the strongest advocates, mandated reporters are required by law to report any suspected abuse. The list is not all-inclusive, but mandated reporters include physicians, teachers, nurses, emergency medical technicians, school personnel, childcare workers, and law enforcement personnel.3 Let’s work together to better protect our children. If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://www.erinslaw.org/erins-law/
2 – https://www.erinslaw.org/for-parents/
3 – https://dcfs.illinois.gov/safe-kids/reporting.html